Characterising bioactive components of green‐lipped mussel via two extraction methods: in vitro assessment of antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects

Abstract

SummaryThis study investigates the benefits of green‐lipped mussels containing bioavailable PUFAs and inflammation‐modulating oil extracts. The goal is to find the best method for extracting lipids from two types of raw materials with strong immunomodulatory, anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties using organic solvents and supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) techniques. The lipid classes are analysed using TLC‐FID and GC–MS to detect FFAs, while DPPH determines antioxidant levels. The cytokine production of IL‐6 and TNF‐α in LPS‐stimulated mouse macrophages is measured using ELISA. The results show that while supercritical CO2 is the most effective method for extracting lipids, the content can vary depending on the source and technique. The major FFAs found include EPA, Palmitic acid, DHA, and Palmitoleic acid, with PUFAs, particularly omega 3, being the most dominant. Samples exhibit potent radical scavenging in 2000 μg mL−1, similar to ascorbic acid at 62.5 μg mL−1 (62.2 ± 15.36%). The cells release more TNF‐α than IL‐6, and solvent extraction was found to regulate the immune response more effectively. In conclusion, the extracts contain significant amounts of EPA/DHA and variable FFAs, suggesting potential anti‐inflammatory effects. However, further validation in alternative in vitro models is necessary.